MUSIC brought thousands of people out to enjoy the weather with outdoor entertainment in Dorchester and Weymouth.

The bank holiday events saw hordes flock to the Quayside at Weymouth and to Maumbury Rings in the county town.

Organiser of Quayside Keith Treggiden said bands had put on ‘probably the best music’ the regular event has ever had.

He added: “It’s been fantastic. The bands have really brought the town alive and with the weather, it just feels like we’ve had the spirit of summer down here.

“We try and make sure we cater for all tastes and ages and it’s great to see so many families here, with all the kids dancing along.”

The event was packed both days, he added.

Headliners at the free event held on Sunday and yesterday included Howling at the Moon, the Stereoironics and the Smoking Benny Blues.

Over the Ridgeway, county town residents and visitors alike took blankets and deckchairs to listen to a lively mix of music at Maumbury Rings.

Organiser and town councillor Tony Lyall said the ancient Roman amphitheatre was the perfect venue.

He said: “It was built as an entertainment space and it’s amazing that it’s still fulfilling that function today.

“Acoustically it’s one of the best examples of its kind.”

The ninth annual event featured bands from London and Brighton as well as those who live closer to home.

Mr Lyall said: “It is a community event so we try and appeal to as many people as possible. We’ve got a real eclectic mix of music to suit everyone.”

He added: “It is great to see so many people here having fun, listening to music and enjoying the sunshine.”

The event is funded by Dorchester Town Council and free, although any donations made by visitors are given to mayoral charities.

Dorchester resident Marlyn Bickel brought visiting friend Carol Seberry from Yeovil to the festival.

Marlyn said: “It is very good. This is our second year and we decided to bring our friends to see it.

“The weather was terrible last year so we had to come back and see it in the sunshine.”

Carol added: “I am really impressed, the atmosphere is great and there’s a real community spirit in the air.

“There’s a great mixture of music.”